We’re not sure if you’ve heard, but this week is the week for the world’s most
fascinating predators. It’s Discovery
Channel’s Shark Week, and just like the rest of the world, we are glued to
the screen (even if we’re not 100-percent sure why…). While we’ve never seen a
real-life shark outside of the local aquarium, we’re pretty sure some of the
folks we deal with everyday are just as toothy and vicious as their water-bound
namesakes. Trust us, this guide will come in handy--even if ya stick to the
sand from now on.

Fishy sitch-y: The
school mean girl is movin’ in for the kill.

Survival strategy

You’re not sure what ya did—maybe you outscored her on a
math quiz or befriended her crush or, we don’t know, just breathed too loudly
in her presence. But you do know this: The queen bee is comin’ for ya…and you
have no idea what to do. Instead of quakin’ in your cardi, summon up a dose of confidence
and stifle your inner scaredy cat. Treat this meanie on the block like you
treat every other acquaintance: politely. When she doesn’t get a rise out of
you, she’ll get bored and move on.

Fishy sitch-y: Your
too-cool-for-school crush is suddenly interested

Survival strategy

Play it cool, cutie, but don’t make things too easy for him.
We’re not sayin’ you’ve gotta play hard to get or shut him down, but do be a
little wary of guys who’ve never given ya the time of day before. Trust us,
starting your relationship as friends will give ya solid foundation for the
future…and it’ll help ya sniff out his motives—just in case.

Don’t let her get away with bad behavior, especially when
you so don’t deserve it. Accusations aren’t the way to go. Instead, sit down
for a one-on-one chat with your chica and tell it to her straight. Explain how
her actions make you feel, and then ask her why she’s acting this way. Be sure
to let her have her say.

Fishy sitch-y: You’re
the only gal in your homeroom with a hot tub, and once the temps drop, the
populars want an invite

Survival strategy

Yeah, it’s neat to score an invite to the in crowd. But do
you want friends who use you for the things you have? Yeah, we didn’t think so.
It’s fine to agree to a get-together once or twice, but insist on hanging out outside of the hot tub (or whatever perk
they want ya to peddle), too. They don’t want you to join them for movie
nights? Fine. But when they ask for some splash time, say, “Sorry, but I’m busy
that night.”